Sam Darnold timetable to return’s ‘shifted quite drastically’ in Seahawks’ favor

Sam Darnold's estimated timeline for returning from injury has changed significantly. Now, Seahawks fans are wondering if the Super-Bowl champion quarterback will be ready to play in next Sunday's game against the Washington Commanders. After Seattle's impressive 31-7 victory over Arizona, it seemed Darnold might be on track to return this week, possibly as early as Wednesday.

Coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism about Darnold's progress, but acknowledged that the injury timetable had shifted "quite drastically" over the past 10 days. Initially, the team feared a bone issue, possibly a fracture to Darnold's right hip, but a CT scan and MRI later confirmed it was a muscle injury. Darnold's absence has been filled in by backup quarterback Drew Lock, who has stepped up admirably.

Lock has completed 35 of 48 passes, boasting a 72.9% completion rate, which ranks fourth-best in the league among quarterbacks who have played only two games. His performance against the Cardinals, where he threw for 422 yards, four touchdowns, and no turnovers, has impressed both teammates and coaches alike.